Kelly Anthon - Idaho State Senator

Kelly Arthur Anthon is a seventh-generation Idaho native raised on a family farm in Declo, Idaho, where his family operated the farm continuously for over 100 years. A licensed Idaho attorney, Anthon has deep roots in the Minidoka County area and has been involved in local economic development and civic leadership throughout his career.

Education

Anthon attended the University of Idaho's College of Law, where he was elected student body president. He received the College of Law's 2002 "Bistline Scholar" award from the Idaho Association of Criminal Defense Lawyers.

Political Experience

Legislative Service

Anthon was appointed by Governor C.L. "Butch" Otter to the Idaho State Senate on July 2, 2015, to fill a vacancy representing District 27. He has since been re-elected for three additional terms and won both the 2024 primary and general elections.

Leadership Positions

• Majority Leader, Idaho State Senate
• Majority Caucus Chair, Idaho State Senate
• Committee Assignments: Senate Judiciary & Rules and State Affairs Committees
• Special Appointment: Member of the Idaho Global Entrepreneurial Mission

Prior Service

Before his state senate career, Anthon served as City Attorney for the cities of Burley, Rupert, Acequia, and Minidoka, Idaho. He practiced law at the Rupert firm Robinson, Anthon & Tribe as a partner, focusing on agricultural law, municipal law, debt restructuring, and business reorganization. He previously worked as an associate attorney at Robinson & Associates .

Professional Recognition and Involvement

In 2013, the Idaho Business Review and Times-News recognized Anthon as one of Idaho's 40 most accomplished and influential professionals under age 40. He serves as an adjunct professor at the University of Idaho College of Law and holds board positions with the Southern Idaho Development Organization and Region IV Development Corporation. He also serves as administrator for the City of Rupert.